DATE: SEPTEMBER 26, 2023
DEPARTMENT: LIBRARY & COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT FROM: KRISTAN LUNDQUIST, LCS DIRECTOR BY: FRANCIS HEBERT, INTERIM DEPUTY LIBRARIAN TITLE: CALIFORNIA LIBRARY LITERACY SERVICES ADULT AND
FAMILY LITERACY GRANT AWARD
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Approve a Resolution accepting the California Library Literacy Services (CLLS) grant awards in the amount of $101,603 in support of Adult Literacy and $108,892 in support of Family Literacy, for a total award of $210,495 and authorize execution of all grant acceptance documents with the California State Library.
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council approve a Resolution accepting the California Library Literacy Services grant award of $210,495 for the continuation of the library’s adult and family literacy programs.
BACKGROUND:
On September 8, 2023, the Salinas Public Library’s Literacy Services was notified by the California State Library Literacy Services (CLLS) of approval for an award of $101,603 to support adult literacy programs, and $108,892 for Family Literacy to support family literacy programs. These funds will support adult and family literacy programming for English-speaking adults with low-literacy skills, and their families, and will be provided primarily to adults and families enrolled in the library’s Adult and Family Literacy programs.
The grant will enable the library to employ temporary part-time staff to work in adult and family literacy programs, acquire books, supplies and learning materials that enhance our adult and family education programs, and increase our capacity to provide high-quality adult and family literacy services, including but not limited to Computer Literacy instruction, Citizenship and High School Equivalency preparation programs, Family Reading Circles, Family Learning events, and staff trainings to enhance family literacy skills and best practices. Library staff are prepared to offer both in-person and/or virtual instruction.
The California Library Literacy Services funding formula for adult literacy services program includes a baseline amount ($20,000) for each approved library literacy program, and a per capita amount per adult learner served in our program as reported in the most recent Final Report on file from our library; and additional funding based on local funds raised and expended for adult literacy services, reflecting a commitment to state/local partnerships in support of literacy services. Because the City continues to invest in its Literacy services, and the library continues to run a very successful program which served more than 400 adults in 2022/2023, the library award is one of the highest in the State.
As developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Literacy staff continue to find innovative ways to serve adult learners with in-person, virtual and distance learning instruction. This includes individual tutoring and small classes, as well as adapting to individual needs and abilities for which we offer virtual options including a combination of video conferencing instruction via Zoom and YouTube videos; guided and self-paced learning with student handbooks and curricula; take-home activity kits; one-on-one help via Zoom, email, phone; and much more.
CEQA CONSIDERATION:
The City of Salinas has determined that the proposed action is not a project as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (CEQA Guidelines Section 15378).
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
The grant will support the City Council 2022-2025 Goals:
Effective and Culturally Responsive Government
Youth and Seniors
DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:
The Library & Community Services Department will work with the Finance Department to receive funds, establish expenditure accounts, and prepare final budget reports required at the end of the grant period.
FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:
There is no impact to the City’s General Fund Budget. No additional Measure E funding will be required beyond that already allocated to the Library’s annual budget. No matching funds are required.
ATTACHMENTS:
Award Letter, California Library Literacy Services dated September 8, 2023 Council Resolution
Page | 2